Wines from Mexico? Sí.

By Sarah Muñoz

The next time you sit down for a decadent meal in Los Cabos, you might want to check out where the wine you're enjoying is from. Chances are you could be sipping on a robust Merlot or Chardonnay from just a bit farther north.

Mexico is offering much more than tequila and beer these days. In fact, it's been producing wine for hundreds of years — though its most recent boom began in the 1980s — and is now giving California and a few wine-producing countries a run for their money on an international scale. Around 90 percent of the wine Mexico produces comes from the valleys of Guadalupe, San Antonio de las Minas and Calafia in Baja California, confectioned in mostly boutique-type wineries. With a grape-loving climate and just-right soil conditions, these wines have fast become local favorites and are gaining recognition the world over. Make sure you bring a bottle home with you!

Cabernet, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Zinfandel and Grenache grapes are only some making up the Mexican red-wine menu, while whites feature everything from Chenin Blanc to Riesling and Colombard. Here are a few names to look out for:

• L.A. Cetto: One of the largest wineries in Mexico, L.A. Cetto produces a wide variety of wines, such as Petite Sirah, Fumé Blanc and Blanc de Zinfandel, as well as boutique options and a fine brandy.
• La Casa de Doña Lupe: Still run by Doña Lupe herself, this tiny winery puts together organic Merlots, Grenache and Cabernets, as well as marmalades.
• Adobe Guadalupe: This boutique winery produces four "ethereal" blends of red and a nice rosé, all named after different angels.
• Casa de Piedra: Little more than 10 years old, Casa de Piedra produces a high-quality Chardonnay and an exciting Tempranillo-Cabernet Sauvignon blend.
• Monte Xanic: One of the most well-known wine producers, Monte Xanic offers both single varieties and blends, including Chardonnay and a Sauvignon Blanc-Semillon blend.
• Viña de Liceaga: You'll see this name in various reds and whites, as well as grappa.

Click here for a quick list of bars and restaurants in Los Cabos to help you plan where to eat, dine, party and drink.